Elderly Businessman Accuses Immigration Officers of Physical Assault, Files $50M Claim
A senior citizen who owns a business in Los Angeles is seeking $50 million in damages. The 79-year-old man alleges that he was physically attacked and detained by immigration officers during an operation at his car wash establishment.
The man, identified as Rafie Ollah Shouhed, sustained severe injuries from the incident. His injuries include multiple fractured ribs, damage to his elbow, and a traumatic brain injury. These injuries have been documented in a federal tort claim filed by his legal representation.
Disturbing Incident Details
The claim recounts a disturbing scenario. It reports that immigration and border patrol officers, wearing masks, had arrived at Shouhed's car wash. Surveillance footage from the scene reveals an officer detaining a man in the car wash's parking lot. When Shouhed, the elderly owner, intervened, a struggle ensued with another officer before yet another officer brought him down.
Shouhed, in his claim, narrates that he tried to present documents proving his employees' legal work status. Instead of receiving a polite response, the officers reportedly responded with harsh language and violently threw him onto the ground. The claim goes further to allege that three agents pinned him down, with one applying pressure to his neck with a knee.
Shouhed reportedly pleaded with the officers, offering his assistance and showing the necessary paperwork for his employees. In response, the officers purportedly responded with a stern warning, asserting their authority and presence.
Press Conference Revelations
In a press conference, Shouhed shared his traumatic experience. He recounted how three physically imposing officers pinned him down and ignored his pleas. He also mentioned his existing heart condition.
The claim accuses the authorities of recognizing Shouhed as a U.S. citizen upon his arrival at the Metropolitan Detention Center. However, they allegedly continued to detain him for nearly half a day without giving him the necessary medical care.
Claims Against The Department of Homeland Security
The tort claim has been filed against the Department of Homeland Security and its branches. It accuses them of assault, battery, civil rights violations, and neglect of serious medical conditions. The claim also suggests that these agencies have created an environment where the excessive use of force is tolerated.
The lawyer representing Shouhed expressed his outrage at the incident, calling it an unlawful assault on an elderly American citizen. He raised concerns about the possibility of such an incident happening to anyone if it could happen to an innocent senior citizen in broad daylight.
Repercussions of the Incident
According to the claim, Shouhed had to temporarily shut down his business due to the incident. Employees, including those who are U.S. citizens, were reportedly too fearful to return to work.
So far, federal officials have not responded to the claim. The Department of Homeland Security has also not provided any comments regarding Shouhed's tort claim.